Transportation in Cebu

Cebu is the gateway to the Philippines, being the access point to around two thirds of the archipelago. About 35% of foreign visitors consider Philippines the destination of their dreams. The first thing that travellers usually do after landing in Cebu is to go on historic journeys, go hiking on mountain trails, play golf, dive to exotic coral reefs (some of the best in the world) or simply laze around in the spotless white sand.

There are lots of opportunities available for ocean and land recreation, information, marketing, transportation and tourism-related projects like mountain resorts, hotels and golf courses.

Cebu Transportation Guide

Getting to Cebu

Most flights come to Cebu by Cebu Pacific or Philippine Airlines (two major national airlines) or by flights from Singapore by Silk Air. Flights can also be taken from Hong Kong by Cathay Pacific or Cebu Pacific or from Doha by Qatar Airways directly to Mactan Airport. The airport is situated on a different island and it takes about 20 to 30 minutes to get to the city of Cebu. Taxis are readily available for hire at the airport.

Most visitors make use of the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) in Manila to fly in to Cebu. NAIA has three terminals in current use. Terminal 2 is used exclusively for international flights by Air Philippines and domestic flights by Philippine Airlines. Terminal 1 is made use of by other airlines that go to international destinations. The Manila Domestic Passenger Terminal is used by airlines to fly to domestic destinations. Terminal 3 is by far the largest and most modern of all the terminals.

Those who wish to take a more relaxed way of getting to and from Manila and Cebu can make use of the Super Ferry. For those travelling with friends and family, a cabin room can be reserved. Quadruple cabin sharing offers the facilities of a toilet and a bath. The cruise from Cebu to Manila takes about 24 hours. So, you can take a leisurely tour unwinding. The ship sails from Cebu all days of the week except Saturdays. The ships come equipped with video karaoke, disco, beauty and souvenir shops along with a café on board, to keep the passengers occupied.

For transport from the airport to the city (or from the city to the airport), we recommend Green Path Transfers, who offer eco-friendly airport transfers in hundreds of destinations around the world.

Getting Around Cebu

Jeepney (fixed route) - This is used for city trips on the popular Filipino commuter vehicle where you can meet the local people.

Tartanilla - This is a horse drawn cart that helps you get a feel of how Cebuanos used to travel in earlier times.

Taxi (with meter) - The best option for touring around the city, and can be hailed for P30.00.

Bus - The bus can be used to explore the whole island, north to south, taking a ride from the North and South Bus Terminal.

Banca - This motorized outrigger is used by people to get from one island to another.

Taxis are the most preferred way of getting around in the city for most tourists, as they are easily available, inexpensive and effective. Most of the drivers know where everything is - in case your driver doesn't, it is easy to flag another one down.

Most of the taxis in Cebu have meters, charging about 30 pesos for you to get in, 2.5 pesos for every half kilometre and 2.5 pesos as waiting charge for every five minutes. Be wary, though, of drivers who do not use their meters or who charge you more than what the meter says.

In case they refuse to use the meter or intentionally go the wrong way to misguide you, the most sensible thing would be to get out and find another taxi. If the driver is a pleasant one you could tip him 10 to 20 pesos for his services and maybe a little more if he helps with loading your luggage.

Avoid private taxis at all costs. They usually tend to take advantage of tourists and overcharge them, many times as high as 5 to 10 times the actual price. Only good for use if you want to take a longer journey and negotiate a fixed price.